Therapists in Rapid City, SD

Photo of Stephanie Beard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rapid City, SD
Stephanie Beard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-PIP, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57702
Waitlist for new clients
Stephanie is a trauma and AASECT-certified sex therapist who works primarily with teens and adults. They have been formally trained in TF-CBT, sex therapy and expressive art therapy. They are passionate about survivors of sexual assault reclaiming their passion and sexuality, as well as teens finding their voice. She is a board member of TPAN and prides herself on being a fierce advocate for the LGBTQIA2S+ community. They have been asked to speak all over the US as well as internationally on many different issues.
Stephanie is a trauma and AASECT-certified sex therapist who works primarily with teens and adults. They have been formally trained in TF-CBT, sex therapy and expressive art therapy. They are passionate about survivors of sexual assault reclaiming their passion and sexuality, as well as teens finding their voice. She is a board member of TPAN and prides herself on being a fierce advocate for the LGBTQIA2S+ community. They have been asked to speak all over the US as well as internationally on many different issues.
(605) 453-4634 View (605) 453-4634
Photo of Dave Jetson, Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Dave Jetson
Counselor, LCP-MH, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
Your internal dissatisfaction, emptiness, anxiety, depression and loneliness are the main motivators for counseling. It could be associated with relationships, work, grief, addictions, trauma, abuse or not being heard. These patterns develop when you deny your emotional truth. When you connect with your emotional truth, you are always loving, kind and respectful to yourself, others, to things of importance and God. When you connect with your emotional truth, life becomes more enjoyable. Reasons for living, loving and exploring seem possible again. The journey and many new possibilities begins here.
Your internal dissatisfaction, emptiness, anxiety, depression and loneliness are the main motivators for counseling. It could be associated with relationships, work, grief, addictions, trauma, abuse or not being heard. These patterns develop when you deny your emotional truth. When you connect with your emotional truth, you are always loving, kind and respectful to yourself, others, to things of importance and God. When you connect with your emotional truth, life becomes more enjoyable. Reasons for living, loving and exploring seem possible again. The journey and many new possibilities begins here.
(605) 937-7636 View (605) 937-7636
Photo of Red Horse Healing , Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Red Horse Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57703
As we engage in equine therapy we witness the incredible bond between horses and humans, crating a safe and transformative space for growth and healing. The wisdom and intuitive nature of horses guide us on a journey of self -discovery, resilience, and emotional well being. Whether it is building trust, finding peace, or developing valuable life skills equine therapy offers a unique and profound path towards growth.
As we engage in equine therapy we witness the incredible bond between horses and humans, crating a safe and transformative space for growth and healing. The wisdom and intuitive nature of horses guide us on a journey of self -discovery, resilience, and emotional well being. Whether it is building trust, finding peace, or developing valuable life skills equine therapy offers a unique and profound path towards growth.
(605) 220-5413 View (605) 220-5413
Photo of Dr. Lena Abourezk, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Dr. Lena Abourezk
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-MH, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57702  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” Carl Rogers My personal philosophy of counseling is to be a guide or facilitator of each client’s journey of self-exploration, self-understanding, and self-awareness. I believe the client is the expert in their own life story and can successfully solve problems, change, meet challenges, and heal with the support from counseling. I believe that every client is unique in their situations and in the issues brought to counseling.
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” Carl Rogers My personal philosophy of counseling is to be a guide or facilitator of each client’s journey of self-exploration, self-understanding, and self-awareness. I believe the client is the expert in their own life story and can successfully solve problems, change, meet challenges, and heal with the support from counseling. I believe that every client is unique in their situations and in the issues brought to counseling.
(605) 609-2278 View (605) 609-2278
Photo of Catherine Jane Larsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Catherine Jane Larsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MH, QMHP, CAC
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57702
Do you need someone to talk to, someone who will listen without judgement? I would be honored to be that someone for you. I have a passion to help people of all ages to learn, grow, and heal. I have a client-centered approach to therapy. This is about you; you are in the driver's seat. Even though the therapy process can sometimes be painful, I like to incorporate a little dash of the "laughter is the best medicine" approach at times. Tears and laughter both have healing qualities. And what if you don't like to talk? We can use additional approaches such as expressive art, play, or journaling to reach your counseling goals.
Do you need someone to talk to, someone who will listen without judgement? I would be honored to be that someone for you. I have a passion to help people of all ages to learn, grow, and heal. I have a client-centered approach to therapy. This is about you; you are in the driver's seat. Even though the therapy process can sometimes be painful, I like to incorporate a little dash of the "laughter is the best medicine" approach at times. Tears and laughter both have healing qualities. And what if you don't like to talk? We can use additional approaches such as expressive art, play, or journaling to reach your counseling goals.
(605) 205-8970 View (605) 205-8970
Photo of Koral Olson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Koral Olson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CBIS
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57702  (Online Only)
I provide counseling services to individuals ages 18 and older in a compassionate, confidential, nonjudgmental setting. I use an eclectic approach in sessions, typically applying strategies from SFBT, CBT, ACT, Existentialism, and Person-Centered Theory in my work with clients. Focused areas of service include: depression; anxiety; ADHD; emotional adjustment to living with a brain injury; compassion fatigue and burnout; navigating change and life transitions; grief and loss; self-esteem; wellness and self-care; women's issues; and stress management.
I provide counseling services to individuals ages 18 and older in a compassionate, confidential, nonjudgmental setting. I use an eclectic approach in sessions, typically applying strategies from SFBT, CBT, ACT, Existentialism, and Person-Centered Theory in my work with clients. Focused areas of service include: depression; anxiety; ADHD; emotional adjustment to living with a brain injury; compassion fatigue and burnout; navigating change and life transitions; grief and loss; self-esteem; wellness and self-care; women's issues; and stress management.
(605) 519-2874 View (605) 519-2874
Photo of Dr. Cassandra Leow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Rapid City, SD
Dr. Cassandra Leow
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LIMHP, LMFT, CMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57701
Mental illness does not discriminate; everyone can struggle with challenges that are unique to them, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues and many more. It takes a lot of courage to seek therapy; it involves facing our shortcomings and accepting that we need help. It is a journey of self-discovery and growth, and it is an opportunity to learn more about ourselves and grow to be the person we were always made to be. This journey is a vulnerable journey, and therapy can serve as a safe space and supportive environment to help you reach your goals and lead fulfilling lives.
Mental illness does not discriminate; everyone can struggle with challenges that are unique to them, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues and many more. It takes a lot of courage to seek therapy; it involves facing our shortcomings and accepting that we need help. It is a journey of self-discovery and growth, and it is an opportunity to learn more about ourselves and grow to be the person we were always made to be. This journey is a vulnerable journey, and therapy can serve as a safe space and supportive environment to help you reach your goals and lead fulfilling lives.
(402) 937-1767 View (402) 937-1767
Photo of Kris Jeakins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Kris Jeakins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC-MH, QMHP, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57702
Waitlist for new clients
I have provided mental health services for over 9+ years to adults, couples, and 16+ who are struggling with mental health issues. I guide people in their healing of trauma including complex trauma, dissociative issues, depression, anxiety, grief, psychotic spectrum, and personality disorders. I will create a safe space of honesty and empathy. I will guide you to strengthen self-trust and empower yourself to solve issues within all your relationships, inside and outside of therapy. I believe that our minds and bodies are connected through thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
I have provided mental health services for over 9+ years to adults, couples, and 16+ who are struggling with mental health issues. I guide people in their healing of trauma including complex trauma, dissociative issues, depression, anxiety, grief, psychotic spectrum, and personality disorders. I will create a safe space of honesty and empathy. I will guide you to strengthen self-trust and empower yourself to solve issues within all your relationships, inside and outside of therapy. I believe that our minds and bodies are connected through thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.
(605) 423-7529 View (605) 423-7529
Photo of Understood Therapy by Nicole Weron, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Understood Therapy by Nicole Weron
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCSC, NCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57702
Ever feel like you can’t shake your case of feeling like you are not good enough? This persistent feeling comes from trying to be someone you’re not. Constantly striving to be perfect or to fit into everyone else’s expectations depletes you. When you come to therapy, you get to drop the pretensions. You get to be vulnerable and explore the fears and tough feelings that you worry you can’t reveal to the people you love. As you get more comfortable talking, playing, and creating with me about your real wants and needs, you will build the skills that will enable you to show your true self to your family, friends, and colleagues.
Ever feel like you can’t shake your case of feeling like you are not good enough? This persistent feeling comes from trying to be someone you’re not. Constantly striving to be perfect or to fit into everyone else’s expectations depletes you. When you come to therapy, you get to drop the pretensions. You get to be vulnerable and explore the fears and tough feelings that you worry you can’t reveal to the people you love. As you get more comfortable talking, playing, and creating with me about your real wants and needs, you will build the skills that will enable you to show your true self to your family, friends, and colleagues.
(605) 303-6608 View (605) 303-6608
Photo of Becky Cornell-Marsich, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Becky Cornell-Marsich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
Whatever struggles you might be having right now, we can examine those together and find ways to change your situation, thoughts, feelings and/or behaviors to help you feel better and find joy in life. I will work to create a space where you feel comfortable sharing what's going on with you, and can work toward your goals.
Whatever struggles you might be having right now, we can examine those together and find ways to change your situation, thoughts, feelings and/or behaviors to help you feel better and find joy in life. I will work to create a space where you feel comfortable sharing what's going on with you, and can work toward your goals.
(605) 600-2249 View (605) 600-2249
Photo of Nikki Gorman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Nikki Gorman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MH, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57703  (Online Only)
Imagine a therapeutic alliance where the complexities of your thoughts and emotions are not only acknowledged but met with profound empathy. A space to share your story without the fear of judgment or invalidation. My deep commitment to your healing and empowerment fosters a warm and compassionate environment of acceptance, understanding, and transformation. Whether you find yourself contending with the relentless grip of anxiety, grappling with the shadows of depression, navigating the haunting echoes of past traumas, or unraveling the intricate nuances of interpersonal struggles, here, every facet of your experience is valued.
Imagine a therapeutic alliance where the complexities of your thoughts and emotions are not only acknowledged but met with profound empathy. A space to share your story without the fear of judgment or invalidation. My deep commitment to your healing and empowerment fosters a warm and compassionate environment of acceptance, understanding, and transformation. Whether you find yourself contending with the relentless grip of anxiety, grappling with the shadows of depression, navigating the haunting echoes of past traumas, or unraveling the intricate nuances of interpersonal struggles, here, every facet of your experience is valued.
(605) 250-7340 View (605) 250-7340
Photo of Janet K. Kuske, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Janet K. Kuske
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-MH, QMHP
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
For the past 25 years, I have provided counseling services to my clients in various settings, including residential treatment, the clinic setting, in-home setting, and the school system. While I enjoy working with all ages and stages of individuals, I have a passion for and a great deal of experience in working with children, adolescents, and their families. I am a person who is easy to get to know and get along with, and partner with my clients as a team to face and manage life’s difficulties and emotional and behavioral challenges. I also work with other entities involved in a client’s life to ensure their best treatment.
For the past 25 years, I have provided counseling services to my clients in various settings, including residential treatment, the clinic setting, in-home setting, and the school system. While I enjoy working with all ages and stages of individuals, I have a passion for and a great deal of experience in working with children, adolescents, and their families. I am a person who is easy to get to know and get along with, and partner with my clients as a team to face and manage life’s difficulties and emotional and behavioral challenges. I also work with other entities involved in a client’s life to ensure their best treatment.
(605) 646-4502 View (605) 646-4502
Photo of Lesley Anne Dzintars, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Lesley Anne Dzintars
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MH, QMHP, CBP
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57702
Are you being the best version of yourself? Does life seem to flow with ease? Do you feel joyful? Therapy is a tool that can move you toward this state of being and way of living. Much of what we observe and experience in today's world may be chaotic, stressful and perhaps painful. How can we be "in the world" but not "of the world?" How can we be our best selves regardless of what surrounds us? Thinking patterns and unconscious habits are often barriers to living fully. How can we learn to transcend and live a life of hope and love.
Are you being the best version of yourself? Does life seem to flow with ease? Do you feel joyful? Therapy is a tool that can move you toward this state of being and way of living. Much of what we observe and experience in today's world may be chaotic, stressful and perhaps painful. How can we be "in the world" but not "of the world?" How can we be our best selves regardless of what surrounds us? Thinking patterns and unconscious habits are often barriers to living fully. How can we learn to transcend and live a life of hope and love.
(605) 250-4634 View (605) 250-4634
Photo of Bailey Metzger, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Bailey Metzger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT, QMHP
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
Waitlist for new clients
Seeking support for yourself or a child can feel challenging. My hope is to assist you in navigating this process. When working with clients, I draw from a client-centered approach and utilize skills and techniques that best fit each client and their needs. I believe each client is the expert of their life and I strive to provide a supportive and accepting space we can explore change.
Seeking support for yourself or a child can feel challenging. My hope is to assist you in navigating this process. When working with clients, I draw from a client-centered approach and utilize skills and techniques that best fit each client and their needs. I believe each client is the expert of their life and I strive to provide a supportive and accepting space we can explore change.
(605) 453-4463 View (605) 453-4463
Photo of Mindy Hedlund, Psychologist in Rapid City, SD
Mindy Hedlund
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
If you have been suffering with feelings of anxiousness, depression, and/or experience negative thoughts that lead to distress, I would like to help . It takes courage to start therapy and share thoughts and feelings that you rarely give words to. The most important aspect of therapeutic work is the therapist client relationship with safety and trust built over time as the foundation. Together we can explore and make sense of what is causing your distress and develop tools to help you feel stronger and more comfortable with yourself and others. My goal is for you to experience more joy and a better quality of life.
If you have been suffering with feelings of anxiousness, depression, and/or experience negative thoughts that lead to distress, I would like to help . It takes courage to start therapy and share thoughts and feelings that you rarely give words to. The most important aspect of therapeutic work is the therapist client relationship with safety and trust built over time as the foundation. Together we can explore and make sense of what is causing your distress and develop tools to help you feel stronger and more comfortable with yourself and others. My goal is for you to experience more joy and a better quality of life.
(605) 863-9489 View (605) 863-9489
Photo of Greg Swenson, Psychologist in Rapid City, SD
Greg Swenson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57701
View website for more information: gregswensonphd.net
View website for more information: gregswensonphd.net
(605) 923-8493 View (605) 923-8493
Photo of Joshua Charles Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rapid City, SD
Joshua Charles Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57701
Are you tired of feeling helpless? Do you want to take control of your symptoms? I believe everyone is doing the best they can! I help people find their inner strength by providing tools they need to take control and understand their symptoms. By taking control a person is able to understand their experiences and plan for a better tomorrow.
Are you tired of feeling helpless? Do you want to take control of your symptoms? I believe everyone is doing the best they can! I help people find their inner strength by providing tools they need to take control and understand their symptoms. By taking control a person is able to understand their experiences and plan for a better tomorrow.
(605) 570-5695 View (605) 570-5695
Photo of Emily Holle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Rapid City, SD
Emily Holle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57701
Waitlist for new clients
In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity- Albert Einstein. Life isn't always easy, even the strongest individuals sometimes need a little help to work through the difficulties life throws at them.  Let me be there to help you navigate these moments. I use a client-centered approach to best fit each client's needs as you are the expert of your life. I strive to meet you where you are in your therapeutic journey, and work collaboratively to achieve your goals. When working with clients, I draw from Trauma-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Family Systems, and Strength Based therapeutic approaches.
In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity- Albert Einstein. Life isn't always easy, even the strongest individuals sometimes need a little help to work through the difficulties life throws at them.  Let me be there to help you navigate these moments. I use a client-centered approach to best fit each client's needs as you are the expert of your life. I strive to meet you where you are in your therapeutic journey, and work collaboratively to achieve your goals. When working with clients, I draw from Trauma-Focused, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Family Systems, and Strength Based therapeutic approaches.
(605) 349-2916 View (605) 349-2916
Photo of Beth L Trennepohl, Licensed Professional Counselor in Rapid City, SD
Beth L Trennepohl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LMHP, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57703
Waitlist for new clients
You are a person of faith - but that doesn't seem to be enough right now. You wonder how a traditional counselor, steeped in psychology, can even understand your deep desire to reconcile your faith and your frailty, your determination and your doubts. Wonder no more! YOU are SAFE here.... I am honored to help you reconcile your real life stress, your mental health challenges, your emotional turbulence, and your relationship desires WITH your Christian faith. Let's not put this off any longer.... You are safe here.
You are a person of faith - but that doesn't seem to be enough right now. You wonder how a traditional counselor, steeped in psychology, can even understand your deep desire to reconcile your faith and your frailty, your determination and your doubts. Wonder no more! YOU are SAFE here.... I am honored to help you reconcile your real life stress, your mental health challenges, your emotional turbulence, and your relationship desires WITH your Christian faith. Let's not put this off any longer.... You are safe here.
(605) 863-9511 View (605) 863-9511
Photo of LMB Therapy, Psychologist in Rapid City, SD
LMB Therapy
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rapid City, SD 57702
We are a private practice comprised of a licensed psychologist, two licensed professional counselors, an occupational therapist, and an administrator. Our team provides relationship-based therapy that aims to meet people where they are and to provide experiences that broaden possibilities for growth in a playful, sensory-friendly, and inviting setting. While we hope to grow towards a farm-and-garden milieu setting, we currently partner with Black Hills Works to operate their greenhouses, which provide opportunities for volunteer work, employment, and community. We look forward to meeting you! https://www.facebook.com/LMBFarm/ and www.lmbtherapy.com.
We are a private practice comprised of a licensed psychologist, two licensed professional counselors, an occupational therapist, and an administrator. Our team provides relationship-based therapy that aims to meet people where they are and to provide experiences that broaden possibilities for growth in a playful, sensory-friendly, and inviting setting. While we hope to grow towards a farm-and-garden milieu setting, we currently partner with Black Hills Works to operate their greenhouses, which provide opportunities for volunteer work, employment, and community. We look forward to meeting you! https://www.facebook.com/LMBFarm/ and www.lmbtherapy.com.
(605) 857-8093 View (605) 857-8093

How does your Therapist compare?

Number of Therapists in Rapid City, SD

100+

Average cost per session

$150

Therapists in Rapid City, SD who prioritize treating:

95% Anxiety
91% Depression
79% Self Esteem
77% Stress
74% Coping Skills
73% Relationship Issues
73% Grief

Average years in practice

12 Years

Top 3 insurances accepted

80% BlueCross and BlueShield
67% Wellmark BCBS
60% Avera Health Plans

How Therapists in Rapid City, SD see their clients

80% In Person and Online
20% Online Only

Gender breakdown

83% Female
16% Male
1% Non-Binary
FAQs - About Therapy and Counseling

How can I find a therapist in Rapid City?

Search for nearby therapists or counselors by inputting your city, town, or suburb; or zip code; or a provider’s name into the search bar. From there, you can filter providers by the issues they treat, cost, insurance, gender, and other factors to find providers who are well-suited to your needs. To navigate between locations within the same country, enter a new city or zip code into the search bar.

Learn more about how to find a therapist

Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed therapist?

The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors.

Many have been licensed by the country or state where they practice; providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some clinicians or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.

What’s the difference between a psychologist, a therapist, and a counselor?

Therapists, psychologists, and counselors are all licensed mental health professionals. In the US, psychologists have earned a doctoral degree. The terms “therapist” and “counselor” are used somewhat interchangeably, but generally therapists offer longer-term, mental health care, while counselors offer shorter-term care that may focus on one domain, such as marriage, career, or academic challenges.

Clients should consider factors such as insurance coverage and their primary reason(s) for seeking therapy to determine the type of professional best suited to their needs. Someone struggling with mental health challenges such as depression or anxiety, for example, may wish to seek out a clinical psychologist or therapist, while someone navigating career obstacles or marital upheaval may benefit from seeing a counselor who can offer short-term, targeted support.

What type of therapy is right for me?

The type of therapy best suited to a particular individual depends on several factors, including their primary reason for seeking therapy, their preferred timeline (some therapy types last for a set number of sessions, while others are open-ended), and their personality and preferences—some may prefer a more structured approach. For many individuals, multiple types of therapy could provide a good fit.

How much does therapy cost?

The cost of therapy depends on a number of variables, including location and the therapist’s experience and training. On average, a therapy session in the United States could cost between $100 and $200 or more. If you have insurance, the expense of mental health care is typically lower, but it varies based on your insurance plan details and whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network mental healthcare provider.

What are more affordable or low cost therapy solutions?

Many therapists offer sliding scale payments, usually on a limited number of slots, which consists in an agreement between the therapist and a client to pay a reduced rate. Therapists who provide such arrangements often consider the client's income or ability to pay, but the extent of the discount is ultimately at the therapist's discretion. Furthermore, while group therapy may have different goals and benefits compared to individual therapy, it can be a more affordable solution to address certain types of issues.

Is online therapy cheaper than in-person therapy?

Many therapists charge the same amount for online therapy as they do for in-person therapy—though clients may still find this cost-effective if it cuts down on their transportation costs. Health insurance plans often offer equivalent coverage for online and in-person therapy; indeed, in many places, they are legally required to do so. Text-based or on-demand therapy apps may be cheaper than traditional one-on-one psychotherapy; however, the practice may be less effective and is not likely to be covered by insurance.

Is online therapy a good option?

Therapy conducted online can be just as effective as in-person therapy, as long as there is a strong alliance between the client and the therapist. To find a therapist who provides telehealth services to clients in your area, click “Online Therapy” on the directory homepage and search by your city or town or your zip code.

Are therapy sessions confidential?

Confidentiality is a crucial part of the therapeutic relationship. Therapists in the United States are bound by the regulations set out by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA), which aims to protect sensitive health information. With very few exceptions, a therapist will only discuss their client with others when the client has given their written permission. The instances in which a therapist would be required to disclose personal information are: if a client poses a danger to themselves or others, if the therapist suspects the abuse of a child or an elderly or otherwise dependent adult, or if they are legally forced to by court order. These exceptions to the confidentiality agreement are usually discussed with a client before their first session.